Joseph R. Leinweber, Sr., 92, of Knoxville, Tennessee, formerly of Orefield and Reading, died Thursday, December 15, 2011 in the home of his son, Joseph Jr. with whom he resided. He was the husband of the late Helen M. (Lakatosh) Leinweber.

Born in Lebanon, PA, November 14, 1919, Joseph was the son of the late Joseph and Mary (Pamer) Leinweber. He was employed at the former General Battery Corp., now known as Exide Corp. in Reading before retiring.

He faithfully and honorably served his country in the U.S. Navy during World War II as a Ship's Cook First Class with 10 years of service. While serving, his ship the U.S.S. Marblehead was hit by an enemy torpedo. He and his shipmates were brought back to safety by the late Dr. Wassell who was later portrayed in a movie produced by Paramount Pictures. Dr. Wassell evacuated the severely injured men from Java to Australia during World War II. Joseph was awarded the Purple Heart Medal. He was a former member of St. Peter's Roman Catholic Church, Reading.

Survivors: Children, Joseph R. Leinweber, Jr and his wife, Jan, with whom he resided, Susan K. wife of Dr. Craig R. Christine of Orefield; four grandchildren; numerous great grandchildren; several step grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Service: Funeral services will be private and at the convenience of the family in the Heintzelman Funeral Home, Inc., Schnecksville, with the Rev. LaVerne W. Passman officiating. No public calling hours. Interment will follow the service at Gethsemane Cemetery, Laureldale.

Contributions: In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The American Cancer Society, Lehigh Valley Unit, as Joseph was a 12 year lung cancer survivor. Please mail in care of the funeral home, P.O. Box # 196, Schnecksville, PA 18078-0196.